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Maserati Coupe

Since 1914, Maserati was building and selling race cars as well as sports cars. Rich with Italian styling and obsessed with perfection, the line of exotic luxury cars competes with other foreign luxury vehicle manufacturers. Keen on keeping customers happy after the sale, and wanting to protect the Maserati reputation for excellence, company service advisors and technicians are skilled and knowledgeable about the cars they service. Parts and labor may come at a premium price, but they stand behind their work, and will strive to satisfy even the most discriminating customer. Now owned by Fiat, that drive for excellence continues in today’s models.

The Maserati brothers started building cars early in the 20th century. Initially known for their winning race cars, Maserati established itself as a manufacturer of luxurious high-performance sports cars and touring cars.

Once wholly owned by Fiat, Maserati is now controlled by Ferrari, its sister company under the Fiat Group umbrella. In 1999, Maserati was made Ferrari’s luxury division. A new factory was built, and Maserati returned to creating high-performance luxury sport cars and sedans.

Maserati reintroduced their cars into the U.S. in 2002, after an absence of 10 plus years. The Maserati Coupe was a new vehicle added to their model line. The Coupe’s body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Italdesign team, while the 4.2-liter V-8 engine was designed by Ferrari.

The 4.2-liter V-8 Ferrari engine delivered 390 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Maserati offered two transmissions: a six-speed manual transmission is available in the GT model; or a six-speed automated manual transmission, available in the Cambiocorsa model.

The sequential-shifting transmission in the Cambiocorsa works without a clutch, and allows for quick gear changes. Four driving modes are available with the transmission: Normal, Sport, Auto, and Low Grip. Normal and Sport offer aggressive shifting. Auto mode lets the car do the work, while Low Grip allows the driver to start out slower in situations where traction is less than ideal.

The revival of Maserati in the U.S. was enhanced by the introduction of the Maserati Coupe. Limited production of the vehicle ensured that potential buyers would have to hustle to get the car they wanted.

About the Maserati Coupe

The interior of the Maserati Coupe follows a Maserati tradition of using high quality leather, excellent craftsmanship, and attention to detail to result in a luxurious riding experience for driver and passengers.

The Giugiaro-designed body is curved and stylish, and doesn’t belie the history of luxury that Maserati is known for. The longer wheelbase allows for all four occupants to ride in comfort.

Maserati Coupe Features

In 2006, The Maserati Coupe’s price was reduced from $20,000 to $80,000, making it an even more affordable luxury touring car for customers in the U.S.

The 2006 Maserati Coupe GT, based on the 3200 GT, which is not sold in the U.S., was equipped with the 4.2-liter V-8 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Cambiocorsa included the optional automated manual transmission, which allowed the driver to shift gears via steering column paddle shifters, and without the use of a clutch pedal. It had an active suspension that automatically adjusted the suspension according to road and driving conditions.

Standard features are anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control.

The four-passenger cabin offered improved location of dash controls for the driver. Standard equipment included power front seats since the driver’s seat had memory functions and a 5.8-inch color display for operating the climate control, audio, and trip computer systems. Front and side airbags were standard. Additional optional equipment let owners customize their vehicle to meet their needs.

Additional equipment available as option include xenon HID headlights, five-CD disc changer, and a full range of paint and interior trim colors.

Maserati Coupe Evolution

Based on the 3200 GT available in Italy, the Maserati Coupe was introduced in the U.S. in 2002. Three years later, new software for Lotus’ DPM system and a new clutch improved the performance of the transmission.

Select a Maserati Coupe Year

While some of its contenders may have it outclassed in certain areas, the 2006 Maserati Coupe carries a relatively low sticker price, making it a good option for anyone who wants top European luxury and performance without breaking the bank.